Amarnath Yatra 2024 — Route, Dates and All You Need to Know

The Amarnath Yatra happens each year in July-August, drawing many pilgrims. It’s the only time when the Amarnath Cave, located 141 km from Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir, is accessible. The cave sits at 3,888m altitude and is reached via Pahalgam town. Amarnath is a significant Hindu shrine, and the annual pilgrimage, marked by ‘Pratham Pujan’, seeks the blessings of Baba Amarnath. Here is the Complete Guide to Reach Baba Barfani

Amarnath Yatra 2024

Every year, during July-August, the Amarnath yatra draws countless pilgrims to visit the cave during the Shravani Mela. This is the only time when the cave is accessible. Located at 3,888m altitude, about 141 km from Srinagar, it’s reached via Pahalgam town. Amarnath holds great significance in Hinduism and is revered as one of the holiest shrines. The annual pilgrimage begins with ‘Pratham Pujan’ to seek blessings from Baba Amarnath.

During July-August, the ice in the cave, formed from water dripping from the cave’s top, peaks. This ice lingam is believed to grow and shrink with the phases of the moon, reaching its height during the summer festival.

For the 2024 Amarnath Yatra, there are some important points to remember:

You need a medical certificate from an authorized hospital/doctor in your state.
Photos should be in .JPEG or .JPG format, not exceeding 1MB.
The medical certificate should be in .PDF format, also not exceeding 1MB.
Age limit: 13 to 17 years; anyone younger or older won’t be allowed.
Pregnant women beyond 6 weeks of pregnancy are not permitted.
Carry the original Photo ID and Medical Certificate while traveling.

Amarnath Yatra Official Opening Dates 2024

Amarnath Yatra 2024 begins on July 1st, starting with ‘Pratham Pujan’ to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings. The most enjoyable part of the journey is between Guru Purnima and Shravan Purnima. Pilgrims reach the base camp to commence the yatra.

Amarnath Yatra 2024 begins on July 1st, starting with ‘Pratham Pujan’ to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings. The most enjoyable part of the journey is between Guru Purnima and Shravan Purnima. Pilgrims reach the base camp to commence the yatra.

Registration Process for Amarnath Yatra 2024:

Registration is first come, first served.
Each pilgrim must submit an application form and a Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC) along with necessary documents to obtain the yatra permit.
Forms can be downloaded from the provided link or obtained free of cost at designated bank branches.
For online registration, visit https://jksasb.nic.in/register.aspx, complete the form, and attach required documents like medical certificates and photo ID.
A ‘group registration scheme’ is available since 2014 for those traveling with friends, family, or neighbors.
Details for NRIs/ex-yatri registration can be found at http://www.shriamarnathjishrine.com/.

Registration Date for Amarnath Yatra 2024:

Registration begins on April 17th, 2024.

Registration Fees for Amarnath Yatra 2024:

INR 100 per yatri/per permit.
Each permit is valid for one yatri only.

Travelling to Amarnath Yatra Base:

State Transport and private operators offer bus services from Jammu to Pahalgam and Baltlal, the starting points of the Amarnath Yatra.

Amarnath Yatra Routes

There are two routes for the Amarnath Yatra. The northern route is shorter, 14 km, but steep, starting at Baltal. The longer, more traditional route passes through Srinagar.

Devotees begin the yatra from Srinagar or Pahalgam. The shorter trek via Baltal, Domial, Barari, and Sangam is steep and 14 km long. Ponies aren’t allowed due to safety reasons; people walk or use ‘Dandies’ (a seat carried on shoulders). This route is favored for the return journey due to health concerns.

The longer route via Pahalgam is preferred by most. It’s wider, 36 to 48 km long, taking 3–5 days one way. It slopes gradually but is crowded with ponies. Aged or sick pilgrims are advised this route.

Amarnath Trek Distance

The longer route via Pahalgam is preferred by most. It’s wider, 36 to 48 km long, taking 3–5 days one way. It slopes gradually but is crowded with ponies. Aged or sick pilgrims are advised this route.

Facilities along both routes are provided by the Indian Army, Central & State Governments, and non-profits. The Shri Amarnath Yatra Trust organizes the yatra, providing services like telecommunication and power supply. Mobile phones are useless; advance online helicopter bookings are recommended.

Despite improved facilities, the journey remains harsh. Compulsory health checks are required. Extreme weather and accidents are common, yet devotees undertake this perilous journey joyfully each year.

Amarnath Yatra In Helicopter

Experience the Amarnath Yatra by helicopter from either Baltal or Pahalgam helipads, with strict adherence to specified timings. Booking prices for 2024 are yet to be announced, with a maximum of 5 bookings per debit/credit card allowed, and a three-week waiting period before rebooking with the same card.

safety

children under 13, individuals over 75, and pregnant women over 6 weeks are restricted. Helicopter travelers must provide a Compulsory Health Certificate from authorized doctors, available on the official website.

Tips for Amarnath Yatra 2024

physical fitness preparation, hydration, and altitude sickness awareness, with medical facilities accessible within a 2km radius. Alcohol, caffeine, and smoking are discouraged during the journey.”